PTI march concerns: Rangers deployment extended

PTI march concerns: Rangers deployment extended

The federal government has extended the deployment of Pakistan Rangers in Islamabad and several districts of Punjab amid security preparations ahead of a possible long march by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

According to sources, the government has extended the Rangers’ deployment until October 15, 2026. The extension follows requests from the Islamabad chief commissioner and the Punjab Home Department.

Sources said the Rangers will continue performing duties assigned by the Islamabad administration and the Punjab government during the extended period. The security personnel will assist the relevant authorities in maintaining law and order and responding to any security requirements arising during political activities.

The government had previously approved the deployment of Rangers until October 5. The latest extension will keep the paramilitary force in place for another 10 days.

The development comes as the PTI considers its next course of action following political developments and negotiations with the government. The party has announced plans for a long march, with the date reportedly set for October 4.

Meanwhile, details of a PTI political and core committee meeting held after the first round of talks with the government have also emerged.

Sources said PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan briefed party members about the discussions held with the government delegation. During the meeting, senior PTI leader Salman Akram Raja reportedly told participants that the government appeared to have a complete plan for imposing an emergency.

The sources said most participants favoured continuing negotiations with the government rather than immediately ending the dialogue process. According to the participants’ view, the party could reconsider the timing of its planned long march if the government makes meaningful progress during the talks.

Sources said the possibility of postponing the march was discussed rather than cancelling it altogether. The party is expected to assess the outcome of further negotiations before making a final decision about its next political course.

The talks between the government and opposition take place amid heightened political tensions, while the extended Rangers deployment reflects the authorities’ preparations for possible demonstrations and other political activities in Islamabad and Punjab.